How To Get Rid Of Woodlice

In a Nutshell

Woodlice, also known as pill bugs or roly-poly bugs, are common household pests that thrive in damp and decaying environments.
Effective removal involves reducing moisture levels, eliminating food sources, and sealing entry points.
Employing natural repellents and chemical treatments can help in severe infestations.
Consistent maintenance and prevention steps are vital to ensuring they do not return.

Understanding Woodlice
Signs of Woodlice Infestations
Why Do Woodlice Enter Homes?
Effective Ways to Get Rid of Woodlice
Preventing Future Infestations
Conclusion

Understanding Woodlice

Woodlice are small, terrestrial crustaceans that belong to the order Isopoda. They are frequently found in damp, dark areas such as basements, garages, and gardens. Although harmless to humans, they can become a nuisance when they intrude on homes.

Appearance: Oval-shaped, grey or brown bodies with segmented exoskeletons.
Habitat: Primarily outdoors in moist, decomposing organic matter but they can move indoors in search of food and shelter.

Signs of Woodlice Infestations

Identifying a woodlice infestation early can help mitigate more serious problems. Look for the following indicators:

Visible Woodlice: Spotting numerous woodlice either dead or alive.
Damp, Decayed Areas: Presence around damp areas, such as underpot plants or in basements.
Damage to Walls: Small, cylindrical droppings and signs of nibbling on wallpaper or damp wood.

Why Do Woodlice Enter Homes?

Understanding why woodlice invade homes is crucial for effective prevention. They generally seek:

Moisture: Humid environments are ideal for their survival.
Shelter: They hide during the day and are active at night.
Food Sources: Decomposing plant material, mold, and food scraps attract them.

Effective Ways to Get Rid of Woodlice

Reducing Moisture Levels

Lowering the humidity within your home is one of the most crucial steps.

Use dehumidifiers in damp areas.
Fix leaks and maintain dry plumbing.
Improve ventilation in enclosed spaces, especially basements and bathrooms.

Eliminating Food Sources

Removing their food sources helps deter woodlice from making your house their home.

Clean up any decaying plant material inside and around your home.
Store food properly in airtight containers.
Dispose of garbage regularly, especially organic waste.

Sealing Entry Points

Prevent these pests from entering by sealing off access points.

Use caulk or sealant to fill gaps and cracks in walls, windows, and doors.
Install weather stripping around doors and windows.
Keep outdoor areas tidy to prevent woodlice from finding convenient entry points.

Using Natural Repellents

Natural repellents are an eco-friendly way to deter woodlice.

Diatomaceous Earth: Sprinkle around entry points to dehydrate and kill woodlice.
Copper Tape: Apply around plant pots as a barrier.
Essential Oils: Spray mixtures of essential oils, like tea tree or eucalyptus, in infested areas.

Employing Chemical Treatments

Chemical solutions should be a last resort but can be effective.

Insecticidal Sprays: Use targeted sprays in problem areas.
Boric Acid: Sprinkle in infested zones to poison and dehydrate the pests.
Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safe use.

Preventing Future Infestations

Preventative measures are key to ensuring that woodlice do not return.

Regularly check and repair leaks.
Keep your home well-ventilated and dry.
Maintain cleanliness to eliminate potential food sources.
Regularly inspect and seal potential entry points.

For more detailed guidance, visit our post on preventive measures for common pests.

Conclusion

Dealing with woodlice requires a multipronged approach that combines environmental control, physical barriers, and sometimes chemical treatments. By staying vigilant and maintaining a clean, dry environment, you can prevent these critters from becoming a recurring problem.

For more comprehensive advice on pest control, explore our extensive resources at HowToGetRidOf.co.uk. For further information on woodlice and household pests, check out the Royal Horticultural Society’s guide to woodlice.

Woodlice